MALBEC: WHO WOULD HAVE THOUGHT IT ALL BEGAN HERE…

Given that Malbec is synonymous with Argentina, it's odd to think that the grape has its roots in France. Bordeaux to be exact. In fact, it's one of the five Bordeaux varietals. After a severe frost in 1956 destroyed most of the Malbec in France, its popularity declined there. But in Argentina, Malbec has thrived. It seems almost like destiny: the climate, soil and elevation, especially in the Mendoza region, are perfect for the grape. And Argentina produces Malbecs that are well deserving of the praise they receive: round tannins, nice spice and an overall plush, velvety profile.

It's November. The time for giving thanks. So let's throw some gratitude towards the Don himself. We owe a great debt to Don Miguel Gascón, the father of Argentinean Malbec. He arrived in Buenos Aires from Spain at just 19, and started working in a grocery store. In a matter of years he launched his own winery (Bodegas Escorihuela), and thus Argentinian Malbec. So when you raise your glass of Gascón, you're raising an original. Today, we toast Don Miguel Gascón's legacy of hard work, countless charitable acts and incredible wine. Cheers.